Why Muslims in Northern Arakan Continue to Flee to Bangladesh

News Analysis

July 25, 2025

Global Arakan Network

Cover Photo

UNHCR (July 15, 2025): Reports up to 150,000 Rohingya refugees arriving in Cox’s Bazar over the past 18 months, joining nearly 1 million already there.

Historically, reports on the number of refugees fleeing to Bangladesh have been inconsistent.

Since the Arakan Army (AA) gained control of the Arakan-Bangladesh border, members of the Muslim community, primarily Rohingya, have continued to flee to Bangladesh. While some observers attribute this exodus to alleged repression by the AA, the ground realities are more complex. Three key factors drive this migration.

Why Muslims in Northern Arakan Continue to Flee to Bangladesh (videosource)